When determining a student's AT needs, it's wise to start with low tech devices. Most low tech tools are readily available, often found in the classroom. A device as simple as a pencil grip, a highlighter, or a slant board are all considered low tech devices.
If a student's identified area of need is not satisfied with a low tech device, and FAPE cannot be provided with items currently in use, then moving up the continuum of products, devices, software, or services is warranted.
Consider the leveled categories below as a reference regarding complexity of devices:
Simple or low technology - pencil grips, tactile rulers, light pens, page holders, highlighter tape, correction tape, paper communication systems, visual supports,video magnification, bold lined paper
Mid technology - timers, talking photo albums, digital recorders, calculators, spell checkers, switch-operated toys and appliances, single- and multiple-message communication systems requiring simple training of no more than one or two sessions
High technology- computers, mobile devices, alternative keyboards, switch-control systems for computers, communication devices, word processors, graphic organizer software, text-to-speech software, text scanners, devices requiring an expert to train the user to a proficient level over time
This list is not all-inclusive, but a sampling of the types of resources that may be used to address a specific function.
Assistive Technology Assessment with Ike Presley
While this video is presented by the Perkins School for the Blind, consideration of tools for various AT needs is presented and offers suggestions for teachers and districts in determining reasonable steps toward determination and acquisition of resources and tools.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BFahrZI7aQA These tools, devices, and software are frequently considered in Pinellas County and are in current use. Most of these devices are at the mid to high tech range, and will also be found in Pasco and Hernando counties, as needed.
Resources other than those pictured below may be inventoried in Pasco and Hernando counties, with consideration of any device independently determined in each county, per student.
Depending on student need and identified goals, additional devices may be considered for trial through the state lending library, with the assistance of each districts' Local Assistive Technology Specialist (LATS). Please note that the devices and resources suggested below represent just a fraction of the resources in production today.
Where to Start?
When determining a student's AT needs, it's wise to start with low tech devices. Most low tech tools are readily available, often found in the classroom. A device as simple as a pencil grip, a highlighter, or a slant board are all considered low tech devices.
If a student's identified area of need is not satisfied with a low tech device, and FAPE cannot be provided with items currently in use, then moving up the continuum of products, devices, software, or services is warranted.
Consider the leveled categories below as a reference regarding complexity of devices:
Examples of tools to address common problem areas
Assistive Technology Assessment with Ike Presley
While this video is presented by the Perkins School for the Blind, consideration of tools for various AT needs is presented and offers suggestions for teachers and districts in determining reasonable steps toward determination and acquisition of resources and tools.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BFahrZI7aQA
These tools, devices, and software are frequently considered in Pinellas County and are in current use. Most of these devices are at the mid to high tech range, and will also be found in Pasco and Hernando counties, as needed.
Resources other than those pictured below may be inventoried in Pasco and Hernando counties, with consideration of any device independently determined in each county, per student.
Depending on student need and identified goals, additional devices may be considered for trial through the state lending library, with the assistance of each districts' Local Assistive Technology Specialist (LATS). Please note that the devices and resources suggested below represent just a fraction of the resources in production today.
Communication Devices
9 message, 20 message and 32 message
by Enabling Devices- can have
1 message grid, 2, 4, 8 and 16
Word Power app (Saltillo)
Writing Tools
Don Johnston Software
(Don Johnston)
(Don Johnston)
Dragon Dictate software
Access